-The Gift of Charity

Charity always gave of herself. When another soul was hurting, she helped to mend. When they were lost, she assisted with guidance. If they stood at the bottom of their rung, with head hung low and an overpowering desire to simply give up, she steadied their balance and helped them climb that ladder. She was forever selfless in all things and in this never complained, offering gratitude for the few things she had in life. She was bountiful in the riches of love and character. She was an angel on earth without wings.

The heavens began to take notice of Charity and all of the charitable acts of kindness she shared with others. They watched and were in awe of the depth of her heart.

"Surely this one has been placed in the wrong realm," an elder exclaimed. "She would be of better service here in the heavens. Just think of the possibilities."

Each elder contemplated their words.

"But we have no deficiencies in positions throughout the cosmos. Every corner of the vastness is already in capable hands. How could she be utilized if all is already in order?"

Each elder contemplated their perspective.

"But how can we allow such a beautiful anomaly to be wasted and not put into good use?" questioned yet another.

The youngest elder pointed out that she was not a wasted opportunity when she was already offering so much love and compassion to the inhabitants of earth.

Each elder contemplated their assessment. And were each pleased with the truth of such wise words. They agreed them to be factual and accepted her placement should remain as is.

But then Death approached the elders and explained that her time was nearing expiration, and he was preparing to accept her. The elders were devastated.

"How can we allow Death to receive her when there are still so many in need of her greatness?"

Each elder contemplated their dilemma.

"Regardless of things, we cannot break the bonds of our laws. The rules must stand as they are. One broken will lead to chaos and disorder. There is nothing we can do. Death shall be allowed to receive her when the time arrives.

The elders were saddened but accepted the law as binding.

"May I inquire if we can request council from this earthly angel just prior to her transition?" the youngest elder asked.

Unanimously, they all agreed.

The day came shortly thereafter, and Charity found herself standing before the elders. Death stood to her side waiting for the council to be concluded.

"We have been following you for the entirety of your existence. To this very day, we remain in awe of the greatness you have shown to the others around you. Your life has truly been a hallmark of the best of what is good. Unfortunately, your time has expired. But we would be amiss if we did not offer you one last opportunity to share whatever you would like with whomever you wish, before Death will take you."

Charity glanced at Death and then back at the elders. A smile formed upon her face. She offered gratitude for every opportunity she had been given to help enrich the lives of everyone she came into contact with during her life. She offered thanks and asked one final request.

"If you were indeed pleased with the size of my heart, I will ask of you to enlarge it a million times over, divide it evenly, and gift it to everyone I had never met, before Death takes me."

The elders were astounded by her caring request. Time contemplating her ask was not necessary. The elders immediately granted her this.

Death took Charity at this moment. But the entire world each received a tiny part of her deeply embedded into their very being as she went.

"I pray her last offering will not be in vain," the youngest elder spoke. "May her greatness be recognized and implemented in each of their own lives."

The elders contemplated the possibilities of this.